Argentina have named Julian Alvarez and Nicolas Otamendi in their squad for the Olympic Games in Paris despite both players taking part in the ongoing Copa America in the United States. The 18-man Olympic squad is being coached by Javier Mascherano and the two-times gold medal winner called up 36-year-old Otamendi and 32-year-old goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli among his overage players.

Both Manchester City's Alvarez and Benfica's Otamendi have already played over 50 games this season for club and country. Along with Rulli, who is also in the Copa America squad, the trio are set to join Mascherano's squad after the tournament, where Argentina are in the quarter-finals.

World Cup winner and Argentina captain Lionel Messi had already ruled out playing at the&nbsp;Olympics, with the 37-year-old citing the need to manage his workload. The men's football tournament at the&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;begins on July 24, just 10 days after the Copa America final. Argentina are grouped with Morocco, Iraq and Ukraine in the 16-team tournament.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/copa-america-2024-brazil-held-by-colombia-to-face-uruguay-in-quarter-final-737311">Copa America 2024: Brazil held by Colombia, to face Uruguay in quarter-final</a>

ARGENTINA SQUAD FOR&nbsp;OLYMPICS

Goalkeepers: Leandro Brey, Geronimo Rulli

Defenders: Marco Di Cesare, Julio Soler, Joaquin Garcia, Gonzalo Lujan, Nicolas Otamendi, Bruno Amione

Midfielders: Ezequiel Fernandez, Santiago Hezze, Cristian Medina, Kevin Zenon

Forwards: Giuliano Simeone, Luciano Gondou, Thiago Almada, Claudio Echeverri, Julian Alvarez, Lucas Beltran

Argentina have named Julian Alvarez and Nicolas Otamendi in their squad for the Olympic Games in Paris despite both players taking part in the ongoing Copa America in the United States.

Argentina have named Julian Alvarez and Nicolas Otamendi in their squad for the Olympic Games in Paris despite both players taking part in the ongoing Copa America in the United States. The 18-man Olympic squad is being coached by Javier Mascherano and the two-times gold medal winner called up 36-year-old Otamendi and 32-year-old goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli among his overage players. Both Manchester City's Alvarez and Benfica's Otamendi have already played over 50 games this season for club and country. Along with Rulli, who is also in the Copa America squad, the trio are set to join Mascherano's squad after the tournament, where Argentina are in the quarter-finals. World Cup winner and Argentina captain Lionel Messi had already ruled out playing at the Olympics, with the 37-year-old citing the need to manage his workload. The men's football tournament at the Olympics begins on July 24, just 10 days after the Copa America final. Argentina are grouped with Morocco, Iraq and Ukraine in the 16-team tournament. Also read: Copa America 2024: Brazil held by Colombia, to face Uruguay in quarter-final ARGENTINA SQUAD FOR OLYMPICS Goalkeepers: Leandro Brey, Geronimo Rulli Defenders: Marco Di Cesare, Julio Soler, Joaquin Garcia, Gonzalo Lujan, Nicolas Otamendi, Bruno Amione Midfielders: Ezequiel Fernandez, Santiago Hezze, Cristian Medina, Kevin Zenon Forwards: Giuliano Simeone, Luciano Gondou, Thiago Almada, Claudio Echeverri, Julian Alvarez, Lucas Beltran

Paris Olympics: Julian Alvarez, Nicolas Otamendi named in Argentina squad

France will deploy 35,000 security agents and military for the opening ceremony of the 2024 Olympic Games. For the first time in the history of summer games the ceremony will be held outside the walls of the stadium. The parade of athletes will be held on the Seine River with boats for each national delegation with spectators not needing a ticket to access.

France to deploy 35,000 security personnel for the Olympic Games 2024 opening ceremony

The river Seine is still failing water quality tests one month before the Paris Olympics when it is scheduled to host the open-water swimming competition and the swimming leg of the triathlon, results showed Friday.

The latest tests, completed last week and released by the Paris mayor's office, showed levels of the E.Coli bacteria -- an indicator of faecal matter -- are far above the upper limits imposed by sports federations.

On June 18, the level of E.Coli was 10 times acceptable levels and at no point did it fall below the upper limit of 1,000 colony-forming units per 100 millilitres (cfu/ml) used by the World Triathlon Federation.

The readings for enterococci bacteria were better, but they were still at unsafe levels for three of the seven days of last week.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-wimbledon-2024-andy-murray-novak-djokovic-cleared-to-play-at-the-championships-despite-injury-concerns-736049">Wimbledon 2024: Andy Murray, Novak Djokovic cleared to play at the championships despite injury concerns</a>

"Water quality remains degraded because of unfavourable hydrological conditions, little sunshine, below-average seasonal temperatures and upstream pollution," the mayor's office said in a statement.

French authorities have spent 1.4 billion euros ($1.5 billion) in the last decade trying to clean up the river by improving the Paris sewerage system, as well as building new water treatment and storage facilities.

But major storms still overwhelm the capital's waste water network, some of which dates back to the 19th century, leading to discharges of untreated sewage directly into the river.

After months of unusually wet weather, the Seine is currently high up its banks, with its flow around four to five times higher than its usual level in the summer months, according to recent readings.

Organisers insist that some dry weather and sunshine in coming weeks should be sufficient to make the Seine fit for the outdoor swimming events.

"We are still confident with the delivery of the competitions in the river Seine," chief Paris 2024 organiser Tony Estanguet told reporters on Tuesday during a visit to the Olympic village in northern Paris.

"We knew from the beginning that the plan that we decided was really aligned with good conditions at the end of July," he said, speaking in English. "Now we are entering the final lap and the good zone."

<h2>Delays</h2>

The high water levels and rain are also disrupting preparations for the opening ceremony which is also set to take place on the river on July 26.

For the first time for a summer Olympics, the Games will begin outside of the main stadium, with athletes set to sail six kilometres (four miles) down the famed waterway on nearly 100 river boats.

But with currents unusually strong, organisers cancelled the first full practice session for the ceremony on Monday.

Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo, who wants to create public swimming spots in the river next year as part of the Olympics legacy, also had to postpone a planned dip to demonstrate its cleanliness last weekend.

She has promised to take to the water during the week of July 14 instead.

Constantly asked about contingency plans if the Seine remains too dirty and turbulent once the Games begin, Paris 2024 organisers publicly insist there are no alternatives to their plans.

Behind the scenes, sources have told AFP that the opening ceremony can be scaled back and could even become a much-shortened parade over a bridge in front of the Eiffel Tower.

For the open-water swimming, organisers have flexibility in the schedule, enabling them to delay the competition for several days in the event of a downpour that would lead to a spike in pollution.

In the worst-case scenario, it would be cancelled.&nbsp;

The triathlon can also be moved in the schedule and could become a duathlon -- just running and cycling -- without the swimming.

Local newspaper reports in Nice, southern France, suggested this week that the triathlon could be moved to the Riviera holiday spot, but this was denied by the organising commitee.

Athletes are busy training and trying to ignore the noise.

"Every time, there's been problems," French open-water swimming coach Stephane Lecat said last week, referring to last-minute suspense around Guanabara Bay for the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics and concerns about the water quality in Tokyo in 2021.

"There are places around Europe that are a lot worse than the Seine and we swim there every year," he added.

The river Seine is still failing water quality tests one month before the Paris Olympics when it is scheduled to host the open-water swimming competition and the swimming leg of the triathlon, results showed Friday.

The river Seine is still failing water quality tests one month before the Paris Olympics when it is scheduled to host the open-water swimming competition and the swimming leg of the triathlon, results showed Friday. The latest tests, completed last week and released by the Paris mayor's office, showed levels of the E.Coli bacteria -- an indicator of faecal matter -- are far above the upper limits imposed by sports federations. On June 18, the level of E.Coli was 10 times acceptable levels and at no point did it fall below the upper limit of 1,000 colony-forming units per 100 millilitres (cfu/ml) used by the World Triathlon Federation. The readings for enterococci bacteria were better, but they were still at unsafe levels for three of the seven days of last week. ALSO READ: Wimbledon 2024: Andy Murray, Novak Djokovic cleared to play at the championships despite injury concerns "Water quality remains degraded because of unfavourable hydrological conditions, little sunshine, below-average seasonal temperatures and upstream pollution," the mayor's office said in a statement. French authorities have spent 1.4 billion euros ($1.5 billion) in the last decade trying to clean up the river by improving the Paris sewerage system, as well as building new water treatment and storage facilities. But major storms still overwhelm the capital's waste water network, some of which dates back to the 19th century, leading to discharges of untreated sewage directly into the river. After months of unusually wet weather, the Seine is currently high up its banks, with its flow around four to five times higher than its usual level in the summer months, according to recent readings. Organisers insist that some dry weather and sunshine in coming weeks should be sufficient to make the Seine fit for the outdoor swimming events. "We are still confident with the delivery of the competitions in the river Seine," chief Paris 2024 organiser Tony Estanguet told reporters on Tuesday during a visit to the Olympic village in northern Paris. "We knew from the beginning that the plan that we decided was really aligned with good conditions at the end of July," he said, speaking in English. "Now we are entering the final lap and the good zone." Delays The high water levels and rain are also disrupting preparations for the opening ceremony which is also set to take place on the river on July 26. For the first time for a summer Olympics, the Games will begin outside of the main stadium, with athletes set to sail six kilometres (four miles) down the famed waterway on nearly 100 river boats. But with currents unusually strong, organisers cancelled the first full practice session for the ceremony on Monday. Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo, who wants to create public swimming spots in the river next year as part of the Olympics legacy, also had to postpone a planned dip to demonstrate its cleanliness last weekend. She has promised to take to the water during the week of July 14 instead. Constantly asked about contingency plans if the Seine remains too dirty and turbulent once the Games begin, Paris 2024 organisers publicly insist there are no alternatives to their plans. Behind the scenes, sources have told AFP that the opening ceremony can be scaled back and could even become a much-shortened parade over a bridge in front of the Eiffel Tower. For the open-water swimming, organisers have flexibility in the schedule, enabling them to delay the competition for several days in the event of a downpour that would lead to a spike in pollution. In the worst-case scenario, it would be cancelled. The triathlon can also be moved in the schedule and could become a duathlon -- just running and cycling -- without the swimming. Local newspaper reports in Nice, southern France, suggested this week that the triathlon could be moved to the Riviera holiday spot, but this was denied by the organising commitee. Athletes are busy training and trying to ignore the noise. "Every time, there's been problems," French open-water swimming coach Stephane Lecat said last week, referring to last-minute suspense around Guanabara Bay for the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics and concerns about the water quality in Tokyo in 2021. "There are places around Europe that are a lot worse than the Seine and we swim there every year," he added.

Tests reveal River Seine unfit for swimming one month from 2024 Paris Olympics

The Delhi High Court on Tuesday (June 25) allowed the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) plea to stay the trial court's bail order for Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the money laundering case linked to the Delhi excise policy case.

The Delhi High Court on Tuesday (June 25) allowed the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) plea to stay the trial court's bail order for Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the money laundering case linked to the Delhi excise policy case. The bench of Justice Sudhir Kumar Jain stayed Kejriwal's bail order granted by the trial court on June 20. The bench reserved the order on June 21 after the ED challenged the trial court's decision, which has been put on hold until the ruling. 'Trial court didn't apply its mind...' The bench of Justice Jain said that documents and arguments were not appreciated properly by the trial court. The bench also said that the trial court "has not applied its mind and has not considered the material." Also read | Arvind Kejriwal's AAP fades as 'INDIA' shines The bench observed that mandatory conditions under the PMLA (Prevention of Money Laundering Act) have not been properly discussed in the trial court order on the CM's bail. The High Court has already fixed the main matter for July, where ED challenged the trial court order granting Arvind Kejriwal regular bail in the case. Kejriwal was granted bail last week The CM was granted bail by the trial court on June 20. A day later, the ED moved the high court challenging the grant of bail to Kejriwal. Also read | All about 'Sikhs for Justice' & its alleged links with Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP × On the same day (June 21), it ordered the grant of an interim stay on bail while reserving its order and asked both sides to file their written submissions by Monday. Kejriwal then filed an appeal in the top court against the high court order.

Delhi excise policy case: High Court stays CM Arvind Kejriwal's bail order

Celebrating love! Inside Sonakshi Sinha and Iqbal Zaheer's wedding reception

World number two Carlos Alcaraz said he is looking forward to learning from the 22-times Grand Slam champion Rafa Nadal when they pair up in the doubles at the Paris Olympics. Three-times Grand Slam champion Alcaraz, 21, will return to Roland Garros for the singles and doubles at the Games after being crowned French Open champion there earlier this month.

Nadal won Olympic singles gold in 2008 and a doubles gold in 2016. The 38-year-old will be playing at the Games for a third time.

"I didn’t expect to play doubles at the Olympic Games with Rafa," Alcaraz told reporters on Monday. "It is a unique moment for me but of course I am very happy about it. Let’s see how it’s going to be but it’s going to be a great time. "Honestly, I feel he is going to teach me how to deal with everything. I am the young guy who needs to grow up as a player, to grow up as a person as well.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-indias-sumit-nagal-attains-career-best-atp-ranking-despite-perugia-final-loss-732438">Tennis: India’s Sumit Nagal attains career-best ATP Ranking despite Perugia final loss</a>

"Of course it’s going to be my first Olympic Games. Everything is new for me, so I hope to learn a lot from him."

Nadal is skipping Wimbledon in July in order to prepare for the Olympics while Alcaraz returns to action at the Queen's Club Championships in London later on Tuesday before starting his title defence at Wimbledon next month. The Olympic&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;tournament runs from July 27 to Aug. 4.

World number two Carlos Alcaraz said he is looking forward to learning from the 22-times Grand Slam champion Rafa Nadal when they pair up in the doubles at the Paris Olympics.

World number two Carlos Alcaraz said he is looking forward to learning from the 22-times Grand Slam champion Rafa Nadal when they pair up in the doubles at the Paris Olympics. Three-times Grand Slam champion Alcaraz, 21, will return to Roland Garros for the singles and doubles at the Games after being crowned French Open champion there earlier this month. Nadal won Olympic singles gold in 2008 and a doubles gold in 2016. The 38-year-old will be playing at the Games for a third time. "I didn’t expect to play doubles at the Olympic Games with Rafa," Alcaraz told reporters on Monday. "It is a unique moment for me but of course I am very happy about it. Let’s see how it’s going to be but it’s going to be a great time. "Honestly, I feel he is going to teach me how to deal with everything. I am the young guy who needs to grow up as a player, to grow up as a person as well. Also read: Tennis: India’s Sumit Nagal attains career-best ATP Ranking despite Perugia final loss "Of course it’s going to be my first Olympic Games. Everything is new for me, so I hope to learn a lot from him." Nadal is skipping Wimbledon in July in order to prepare for the Olympics while Alcaraz returns to action at the Queen's Club Championships in London later on Tuesday before starting his title defence at Wimbledon next month. The Olympic tennis tournament runs from July 27 to Aug. 4.

Olympics: Carlos Alcaraz hoping to learn from Rafael Nadal at Paris Games

Aditi Ashok's consistency over four rounds at the Tokyo Olympics nearly proved enough to clinch an unlikely podium spot, and the 26-year-old believes she needs to rediscover it if she hopes to go a step further and win a medal at this year's Paris Games. Ashok came fourth and missed out on a medal in Tokyo by a stroke after being in contention right to the finish. She has gone from strength to strength since then and had a promising 2023, recording five top-10 finishes on the LPGA circuit to rise to a year-end ranking of 42.

"I feel I've gotten better with all aspects of my game," Ashok said in an interview with Sports Authority of India (SAI) media. "2023 especially was a great year performance-wise and that's because I managed to pick up some distance in the off season last year. I would say winning a medal is pretty high up there in terms of career achievements..."

In 2024, Ashok's form has been more mixed, but with several events left on the calendar before the Aug. 7-10 women's Olympic&nbsp;golf&nbsp;tournament begins at Le&nbsp;Golf&nbsp;National, Ashok still has time to find her groove.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-championships-gymnast-queen-simone-biles-wins-record-extending-ninth-title-728121">U.S. Championships: Gymnast queen Simone Biles wins record-extending ninth title</a>

"My results have been average. I have played good in streaks but not for all four days. I do feel I'm playing well so I'm looking forward to the summer events leading up to the Olympics...," Ashok said. "I'm looking at each event with the same importance and trying to do my best for all four days each week. That should get me in a good frame of mind and routine before the games and hopefully that will be enough at Paris."

Ashok will also be keen to bury the disappointment of missing out on a gold medal at last year's Asian Games, in which she lost a seven-shot lead in a final-day meltdown to finish second behind Thailand's Arpichaya Yubol.

"I think I played some of my best&nbsp;golf&nbsp;in Tokyo. I gained a lot of confidence I would say and not much learning," Ashok said. "With the Asian Games I played one of my worst rounds of the year on the final day. Which was after the best round of my life on the third day. So sometimes you fail and there's no reason as to why."

Aditi Ashok's consistency over four rounds at the Tokyo Olympics nearly proved enough to clinch an unlikely podium spot, and the 26-year-old believes she needs to rediscover it if she hopes to go a step further and win a medal at this year's Paris Games.

Aditi Ashok's consistency over four rounds at the Tokyo Olympics nearly proved enough to clinch an unlikely podium spot, and the 26-year-old believes she needs to rediscover it if she hopes to go a step further and win a medal at this year's Paris Games. Ashok came fourth and missed out on a medal in Tokyo by a stroke after being in contention right to the finish. She has gone from strength to strength since then and had a promising 2023, recording five top-10 finishes on the LPGA circuit to rise to a year-end ranking of 42. "I feel I've gotten better with all aspects of my game," Ashok said in an interview with Sports Authority of India (SAI) media. "2023 especially was a great year performance-wise and that's because I managed to pick up some distance in the off season last year. I would say winning a medal is pretty high up there in terms of career achievements..." In 2024, Ashok's form has been more mixed, but with several events left on the calendar before the Aug. 7-10 women's Olympic golf tournament begins at Le Golf National, Ashok still has time to find her groove. Also read: U.S. Championships: Gymnast queen Simone Biles wins record-extending ninth title "My results have been average. I have played good in streaks but not for all four days. I do feel I'm playing well so I'm looking forward to the summer events leading up to the Olympics...," Ashok said. "I'm looking at each event with the same importance and trying to do my best for all four days each week. That should get me in a good frame of mind and routine before the games and hopefully that will be enough at Paris." Ashok will also be keen to bury the disappointment of missing out on a gold medal at last year's Asian Games, in which she lost a seven-shot lead in a final-day meltdown to finish second behind Thailand's Arpichaya Yubol. "I think I played some of my best golf in Tokyo. I gained a lot of confidence I would say and not much learning," Ashok said. "With the Asian Games I played one of my worst rounds of the year on the final day. Which was after the best round of my life on the third day. So sometimes you fail and there's no reason as to why."

Olympics: Indian golfer Aditi Ashok vows for consistency ahead of Paris Games

Indian ace shuttler PV Sindhu went past top-seed Han Yae from China to qualify for the Malaysia Masters semifinals on Friday (May 24). Sindhu emerged on top of her Chinese opponent in the quarterfinal with a 21-13, 14-21, 21-12 win to make it to her maiden semifinals on the BWF tour in 2024. Given the 28-year-old has not been in great form of late, her progress into the last four bodes well in her preparations for Paris Olympics, in July-August.

Talking about her quarterfinal clash, Sindhu made a confident start with a lead in the opening game. While Han Yae made a strong comeback in the penultimate game, with a 21-14 win, Sindhu returned to her best in the final game to move ahead into the next round.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-head-coach-job-jay-shah-confirms-bcci-have-not-approached-any-australian-cricketer-for-top-post-724849">India head coach job: Jay Shah confirms BCCI have not approached any Australian cricketer for top post</a>

Sindhu will now face the winner of the other quarterfinal between Singapore’s Putri Kusuma Wardani and Thailand’s Busanan Ongbamrungphan in the semifinals. Ranked No.15 in the world, Sindhu will be desperate to win the Malaysian Masters. She is looking to win her maiden BWF title since winning the Singapore Open back in 2022. Since then, form and injury concerns have led to her downfall. However, the Indian star is trying her best to return to her consistent best with Paris 2024 just two months away.

Sindhu won a silver in Rio Olympics in 2016 and followed it up with a bronze in Tokyo 2020. Will Paris Olympics prove to be her luckiest with a gold? Only time will tell...

Indian ace shuttler PV Sindhu went past top-seed Han Yae from China to qualify for the Malaysia Masters semifinals on Friday (May 24). Sindhu emerged on top of her Chinese opponent in the quarterfinal with a 21-13, 14-21, 21-12 win to make it to her maiden semifinals on the BWF tour in 2024.

Indian ace shuttler PV Sindhu went past top-seed Han Yae from China to qualify for the Malaysia Masters semifinals on Friday (May 24). Sindhu emerged on top of her Chinese opponent in the quarterfinal with a 21-13, 14-21, 21-12 win to make it to her maiden semifinals on the BWF tour in 2024. Given the 28-year-old has not been in great form of late, her progress into the last four bodes well in her preparations for Paris Olympics, in July-August. Talking about her quarterfinal clash, Sindhu made a confident start with a lead in the opening game. While Han Yae made a strong comeback in the penultimate game, with a 21-14 win, Sindhu returned to her best in the final game to move ahead into the next round. Also read: India head coach job: Jay Shah confirms BCCI have not approached any Australian cricketer for top post Sindhu will now face the winner of the other quarterfinal between Singapore’s Putri Kusuma Wardani and Thailand’s Busanan Ongbamrungphan in the semifinals. Ranked No.15 in the world, Sindhu will be desperate to win the Malaysian Masters. She is looking to win her maiden BWF title since winning the Singapore Open back in 2022. Since then, form and injury concerns have led to her downfall. However, the Indian star is trying her best to return to her consistent best with Paris 2024 just two months away. Sindhu won a silver in Rio Olympics in 2016 and followed it up with a bronze in Tokyo 2020. Will Paris Olympics prove to be her luckiest with a gold? Only time will tell...

PV Sindhu goes past top seed Han Yue to enter Malaysia Masters semifinals

Serbian long jumper&nbsp;Ivana&nbsp;Spanovic said she is hoping to finally secure an elusive Olympic gold medal at her fifth Games in Paris later this year and produce a fitting climax to the story of her career. Spanovic has had a few near misses on sport's biggest stage, claiming bronze at the Rio Olympics in 2016 and finishing fourth at the Tokyo Games with a best effort of 6.91 metres.

The 34-year-old has been successful in every other major event she has competed in, winning gold at the World Championships, World Indoor Championships, European Championships, European Indoor Championships and Diamond League.

"Being a part of the Serbian Olympic team for the fifth time makes me extremely proud, and this Olympics should be, so to speak, perhaps the last test in that arena," Spanovic told Reuters. "Actually, not perhaps the last, but indeed the last test in the arena, but surely&nbsp;some of my highest ambitions of completing my entire story."

<h2>LONG JUMP AMENDMENT</h2>

Should Spanovic return for a sixth Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028, she could find herself competing in a markedly different long jump event. Governing body World Athletics is set to trial an amendment which involves introducing a take-off zone where jumps would be measured from an athlete's take-off to landing position, getting rid of foul jumps to make the event more appealing to fans.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/copa-america-2024-teams-to-be-allowed-concussion-substitutions-724249">Copa America 2024: Teams to be allowed concussion substitutions</a>

The proposal has been met with criticism from some athletes, with Greek reigning Olympic and world outdoor champion Miltiadis Tentoglou saying he would quit the event if it is passed.

Spanovic said she was also not a fan of the proposal, adding: "Many things are changing, mostly because&nbsp;of TV shows, minutes, and attractions. While we support efforts to increase the sport's popularity, there are alternative ways (to do that).

"We are definitely not in favour of changing the fundamental beauty and value of a particular sport or discipline in that way, in my opinion, as there is no point. "The whole allure and fascination, rests in the fact that someone will set a world record or succeed or fail based on accuracy. I could have been an Olympic champion and a two-time or three-time world champion, but I had a minimal foul, so I wasn't."

Spanovic also weighed in on World Athletics' decision to award $50,000 each to the gold medallists at the Paris Games, saying it could be a boon to self-funded athletes. "I believe it is a nice kind of reward (and a way)&nbsp;to recognise the hard work and dedication of the athletes, teams, and individuals who invest all of their resources to achieving that common goal," she added.

Serbian long jumper Ivana Spanovic said she is hoping to finally secure an elusive Olympic gold medal at her fifth Games in Paris later this year and produce a fitting climax to the story of her career.

Serbian long jumper Ivana Spanovic said she is hoping to finally secure an elusive Olympic gold medal at her fifth Games in Paris later this year and produce a fitting climax to the story of her career. Spanovic has had a few near misses on sport's biggest stage, claiming bronze at the Rio Olympics in 2016 and finishing fourth at the Tokyo Games with a best effort of 6.91 metres. The 34-year-old has been successful in every other major event she has competed in, winning gold at the World Championships, World Indoor Championships, European Championships, European Indoor Championships and Diamond League. "Being a part of the Serbian Olympic team for the fifth time makes me extremely proud, and this Olympics should be, so to speak, perhaps the last test in that arena," Spanovic told Reuters. "Actually, not perhaps the last, but indeed the last test in the arena, but surely some of my highest ambitions of completing my entire story." LONG JUMP AMENDMENT Should Spanovic return for a sixth Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028, she could find herself competing in a markedly different long jump event. Governing body World Athletics is set to trial an amendment which involves introducing a take-off zone where jumps would be measured from an athlete's take-off to landing position, getting rid of foul jumps to make the event more appealing to fans. Also read: Copa America 2024: Teams to be allowed concussion substitutions The proposal has been met with criticism from some athletes, with Greek reigning Olympic and world outdoor champion Miltiadis Tentoglou saying he would quit the event if it is passed. Spanovic said she was also not a fan of the proposal, adding: "Many things are changing, mostly because of TV shows, minutes, and attractions. While we support efforts to increase the sport's popularity, there are alternative ways (to do that). "We are definitely not in favour of changing the fundamental beauty and value of a particular sport or discipline in that way, in my opinion, as there is no point. "The whole allure and fascination, rests in the fact that someone will set a world record or succeed or fail based on accuracy. I could have been an Olympic champion and a two-time or three-time world champion, but I had a minimal foul, so I wasn't." Spanovic also weighed in on World Athletics' decision to award $50,000 each to the gold medallists at the Paris Games, saying it could be a boon to self-funded athletes. "I believe it is a nice kind of reward (and a way) to recognise the hard work and dedication of the athletes, teams, and individuals who invest all of their resources to achieving that common goal," she added.

Olympics: Serbian long jumper Ivana Spanovic hoping to ‘complete her story’ at Paris 2024

Two Indian wrestlers, Deepak Punia and Sujeet Kalakal, were stranded at the Dubai airport due to unprecedented rains, which delayed their flights to Kyrgyzstan, where they had to reach in time for their mandatory weigh-ins.

Two Indian wrestlers, Deepak Punia and Sujeet Kalakal, were stranded at the Dubai airport due to unprecedented rains, which delayed their flights to Kyrgyzstan, where they had to reach in time for their mandatory weigh-ins. However, due to the delay, they landed late and were denied participation in the Asian Wrestling Qualifiers, hurting their chances of boarding the flight to Paris for the 2024 Summer Games. But despite this, they still have one chance to punch their tickets for the Olympics in June. The weigh-in for Deepak (in the 86 kg category) and Sujeet (in the 65kg category) was supposed to happen at 8 am local time on Thursday, while their bouts were scheduled on Friday evening. While the 17-member wrestling contingent reached Bishkek on time, the duo was left behind as several flights got rescheduled due to the heaviest rains recorded in Dubai over the past two days. Officials of CGI Dubai are in touch with wrestlers, Deepak Punia and Sujeet Kalkal who have been stranded in Dubai due to the disruption of flights. They will be accommodated in a flight from Dubai to Bishkek tonight ahead of the Asian Olympic Qualifying tournament.… pic.twitter.com/UbgB4ntnTM — SAI Media (@Media_SAI) April 18, 2024 × Upon reaching out to the related authorities, a source close to the information said the coaches and WFI president requested the World Wrestling Body to allow them to participate in the competition, but they denied their request. ALSO READ: Dubai rains pour water over two Indian wrestlers' dreams of qualifying for the Paris Olympics Per the source, the concerned officials waited 10 extra minutes at the airport for their weigh-ins, but the wrestlers failed to arrive on time. "Coaches and WFI president Sanjay Singh requested the UWW (world wrestling body), but the wrestlers were late, and the UWW denied them a chance to complete their weigh-in. In fact, after the request from the WFI, the officials at the venue waited 10 more minutes for the two wrestlers to complete their mandatory weigh-in after the deadline. But the two wrestlers were not able to make it on time,” the source said as quoted by India Today. It’s not over yet! Considering this was their second-last chance of qualifying for the 2024 Summer Games in Paris, the duo can still punch their ticket, with their final opportunity coming during the World Qualifiers in Turkey in May. Meanwhile, at the Asian Wrestling Qualifiers, four Indian grapplers will be in action in the men’s freestyle category – Aman (57 kg), Jaideep (74 kg), Deepak (97kg) and Sumit (125kg). India at Asian Wrestling Olympic Qualifiers at Bishkek today: Only one out of 4 Indian wrestlers in action today remains in the hunt for Quota place: Aman Sehrawat (FS 57kg). Other 3 eliminated: Jaideep (FS 74kg) | Deepak (FS 97kg) | Sumit (FS 125kg) Deepak Punia (FS 86kg)… pic.twitter.com/qKAfsH7ezz — India_AllSports (@India_AllSports) April 19, 2024 × While only one Indian wrestler, Antim Panghal (19) has booked her Paris Olympics ticket in the women’s 53kg category, several others, including Vinesh Phogat (50kg), Reetika Hooda (76kg), the current Under-23 world champion Anshu (57kg), Mansi (62kg) and Nisha (68kg), have the chance to seal their spots for Summer Games in their respective categories. As things stand, 36 quotas in 18 weight categories are up for grabs in the continental Olympic Qualifier.

Paris Olympics still in sight for 2 Indian wrestlers despite missing qualifiers due to Dubai rains

Olympic champion Adam Peaty booked his ticket for the Paris Games on Tuesday and put his rivals on notice by winning the 100 metres breaststroke at the British swimming championships in 57.94 seconds, the fastest time this year.

The world record holder had set a time of 58.53, the year's best until the evening final, in the heats at the London Aquatics Centre.

The Briton had to settle for bronze at the world championships in Qatar last February, with American Nic Fink winning in 58.57. Peaty's world record, set in Gwangju in 2019, stands at 56.88.

The selection time for Paris was set at 59.45, with second-placed James Wilby finishing in 59.47.

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"There's still a lot to come there," Peaty told BBC television after his fastest time since he won gold at the Tokyo Olympics. "This morning I was like, I'm actually so grateful for coming back here, and I didn't give up... we're coming back and I'm happy with that.

"I woke up today and it was like, I'm blessed, I'm healthy, I've got good talent and I just want to race the best in the world. That's a good job to have. You've got to put it in perspective."

The 29-year-old has been open about depression and drinking problems in the past and missed last year's world championships in Fukuoka while taking time out from competition for mental health reasons.

He returned with modest results at a trio of World Cup events in October as he started to build up towards Paris, where he will chase an unprecedented third successive 100m breaststroke title.

China's Qin Haiyang won the 50, 100 and 200m breaststroke titles in Fukuoka last July and has emerged as a favourite for Paris.

He swam the 100m in 57.69 in Fukuoka last July and also at a World Cup meeting in Berlin last October, the fastest time ever by anyone other than Peaty.

Olympic champion Adam Peaty booked his ticket for the Paris Games on Tuesday and put his rivals on notice by winning the 100 metres breaststroke at the British swimming championships in 57.

Olympic champion Adam Peaty booked his ticket for the Paris Games on Tuesday and put his rivals on notice by winning the 100 metres breaststroke at the British swimming championships in 57.94 seconds, the fastest time this year. The world record holder had set a time of 58.53, the year's best until the evening final, in the heats at the London Aquatics Centre. The Briton had to settle for bronze at the world championships in Qatar last February, with American Nic Fink winning in 58.57. Peaty's world record, set in Gwangju in 2019, stands at 56.88. The selection time for Paris was set at 59.45, with second-placed James Wilby finishing in 59.47. ALSO READ: ‘She is scared, intimidated and lonely’: Friend of Christian Horner complainant reveals "There's still a lot to come there," Peaty told BBC television after his fastest time since he won gold at the Tokyo Olympics. "This morning I was like, I'm actually so grateful for coming back here, and I didn't give up... we're coming back and I'm happy with that. "I woke up today and it was like, I'm blessed, I'm healthy, I've got good talent and I just want to race the best in the world. That's a good job to have. You've got to put it in perspective." The 29-year-old has been open about depression and drinking problems in the past and missed last year's world championships in Fukuoka while taking time out from competition for mental health reasons. He returned with modest results at a trio of World Cup events in October as he started to build up towards Paris, where he will chase an unprecedented third successive 100m breaststroke title. China's Qin Haiyang won the 50, 100 and 200m breaststroke titles in Fukuoka last July and has emerged as a favourite for Paris. He swam the 100m in 57.69 in Fukuoka last July and also at a World Cup meeting in Berlin last October, the fastest time ever by anyone other than Peaty.

Adam Peaty books Paris 2024 ticket with fastest time in 100m breaststroke at British swimming championships

World Cup winners Spain guaranteed their place at this year's Olympics in Paris with a crushing 3-0 win over the Netherlands in Seville in the Nations Cup semi-final on Friday.

France, who have already qualified as hosts for the Olympics, beat Germany 2-1 in the other semi-final meaning the final place in Paris will be taken by either the Germans or the Dutch who will meet in the third-place play-off.

Jenni Hermoso put the Spanish on track, latching on to a neat pass from Aitana Bonmati to net the opener after 43 minutes.

Hermoso had also scored on her return to action last October in her first game back for her country after disgraced former Spanish football federation president Luis Rubiales forcibly kissed her during the World Cup medal ceremony.

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Two minutes later, Bonmati turned from provider to finisher as she got on the end of Mariona Caldentey's low cross from the left to make it 2-0.

Ona Batlle bundled in a third after 77 minutes to seal the win and extend Spain's impressive record to just two defeats in their last 20 games.

In Lyon, an unmarked Kadidiatou Diani put France ahead against the Germans with a low half-volley four minutes before the break.

Moments later, in added time at the end of the first half, Lena Oberdorf mistimed a sliding tackle on Marie-Antoinette Katoto in the area to hand France a penalty which Sakina Karchaoui slotted past Merle Frohms in the German goal.

Giulia Gwinn pulled one back from the penalty spot eight minutes from the end but France held on for the win.

France will now meet Spain in the Nations League final on Wednesday while Germany and Netherlands will battle it out in the third-place play-off with an Olympic place on the line.

World Cup winners Spain guaranteed their place at this year's Olympics in Paris with a crushing 3-0 win over the Netherlands in Seville in the Nations Cup semi-final on Friday.

World Cup winners Spain guaranteed their place at this year's Olympics in Paris with a crushing 3-0 win over the Netherlands in Seville in the Nations Cup semi-final on Friday. France, who have already qualified as hosts for the Olympics, beat Germany 2-1 in the other semi-final meaning the final place in Paris will be taken by either the Germans or the Dutch who will meet in the third-place play-off. Jenni Hermoso put the Spanish on track, latching on to a neat pass from Aitana Bonmati to net the opener after 43 minutes. Hermoso had also scored on her return to action last October in her first game back for her country after disgraced former Spanish football federation president Luis Rubiales forcibly kissed her during the World Cup medal ceremony. ALSO READ: Paris Olympics 2024: Russia loses appeal against IOC suspension Two minutes later, Bonmati turned from provider to finisher as she got on the end of Mariona Caldentey's low cross from the left to make it 2-0. Ona Batlle bundled in a third after 77 minutes to seal the win and extend Spain's impressive record to just two defeats in their last 20 games. In Lyon, an unmarked Kadidiatou Diani put France ahead against the Germans with a low half-volley four minutes before the break. Moments later, in added time at the end of the first half, Lena Oberdorf mistimed a sliding tackle on Marie-Antoinette Katoto in the area to hand France a penalty which Sakina Karchaoui slotted past Merle Frohms in the German goal. Giulia Gwinn pulled one back from the penalty spot eight minutes from the end but France held on for the win. France will now meet Spain in the Nations League final on Wednesday while Germany and Netherlands will battle it out in the third-place play-off with an Olympic place on the line.

Paris Games 2024: Spain women's team bags historic Olympic spot with win over Netherlands

Three Paris Olympics sites face slight delays and are being monitored, but all the sporting infrastructure is expected to be delivered on time for the start of the Games in July, the event's top infrastructure official said Wednesday.

Construction of one section of the athletes' village is running several weeks behind schedule, as is the renovation of the Grand Palais monument in central Paris that will host the fencing, the head of the Paris Olympics infrastructure body, Solideo, said.

A third site -- the Colombes swimming pool set to be used for training in northern Paris -- is not expected to be finished until June and is under observation.

"There are three sites out of 70 that are being monitored, without the schedule being at risk," Nicolas Ferrand told a hearing of the French Senate's sports commission.

"Overall, the works are totally on time and they are within the budget given to us, and with the levels of ambition that were set," he added.

Contractors are also racing to finish a crucial metro line extension in north and south Paris ahead of the start of the sporting extravaganza, but organisers remain confident that everything will be concluded in time.

Michel Cadot, who heads a Games co-ordination committee and is head of the National Sports Agency, also reassured the Senate committee the Games would be "perfectly on time and within budget."

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The opening ceremony on July 26, which is set to see the teams sail down the river Seine in central Paris, is still being finalised.

Cadot said that the number of spectators was still under discussion with a reduction of 10-15 percent being envisaged, he said.

Organisers had initially announced plans for 600,000 people to attend in person -- most of them for free -- but the latest estimate is for 500,000, according to police and political sources.

The idea for the open-air ceremony -- the first time the parade will take place outside the athletics stadium in Olympics history -- has been dogged by criticism since its inception because of security concerns.

Cadot said that the ceremony could not be shifted to the athletics stadium as a "plan B" because it would be in use for rugby at the time.

Contingency plans entailed an "adaptation of the concept on the Seine", he said, which media reports have speculated could entail athletes being withdrawn if the risk of a terror attack was considered to be too high.

He also expressed confidence the Seine could be used for the open-water swimming and triathlon events as efforts continue to clean up the waterway.

Work is "advancing very well with remarkable results that are already visible," he told the senators.

Poor water quality forced the cancellation of three swimming test events last July and August.

Three Paris Olympics sites face slight delays and are being monitored, but all the sporting infrastructure is expected to be delivered on time for the start of the Games in July, the event's top infrastructure official said Wednesday.

Three Paris Olympics sites face slight delays and are being monitored, but all the sporting infrastructure is expected to be delivered on time for the start of the Games in July, the event's top infrastructure official said Wednesday. Construction of one section of the athletes' village is running several weeks behind schedule, as is the renovation of the Grand Palais monument in central Paris that will host the fencing, the head of the Paris Olympics infrastructure body, Solideo, said. A third site -- the Colombes swimming pool set to be used for training in northern Paris -- is not expected to be finished until June and is under observation. "There are three sites out of 70 that are being monitored, without the schedule being at risk," Nicolas Ferrand told a hearing of the French Senate's sports commission. "Overall, the works are totally on time and they are within the budget given to us, and with the levels of ambition that were set," he added. Contractors are also racing to finish a crucial metro line extension in north and south Paris ahead of the start of the sporting extravaganza, but organisers remain confident that everything will be concluded in time. Michel Cadot, who heads a Games co-ordination committee and is head of the National Sports Agency, also reassured the Senate committee the Games would be "perfectly on time and within budget." ALSO READ: Los Angeles Clippers' new arena to host 2026 NBA All-Star Game: Official The opening ceremony on July 26, which is set to see the teams sail down the river Seine in central Paris, is still being finalised. Cadot said that the number of spectators was still under discussion with a reduction of 10-15 percent being envisaged, he said. Organisers had initially announced plans for 600,000 people to attend in person -- most of them for free -- but the latest estimate is for 500,000, according to police and political sources. The idea for the open-air ceremony -- the first time the parade will take place outside the athletics stadium in Olympics history -- has been dogged by criticism since its inception because of security concerns. Cadot said that the ceremony could not be shifted to the athletics stadium as a "plan B" because it would be in use for rugby at the time. Contingency plans entailed an "adaptation of the concept on the Seine", he said, which media reports have speculated could entail athletes being withdrawn if the risk of a terror attack was considered to be too high. He also expressed confidence the Seine could be used for the open-water swimming and triathlon events as efforts continue to clean up the waterway. Work is "advancing very well with remarkable results that are already visible," he told the senators. Poor water quality forced the cancellation of three swimming test events last July and August.

Paris Games 2024- Infrastructure to be delivered on schedule, withing budget: Organisers